🚨 1994 Audi 100: Emergency Neutral
The 1994 Audi 100 (C4) uses a traditional floor-mounted console shifter with a button on the front of the shift knob for gear selection.
🧰 Drafted with AI under the editorial review of Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — details like the exact override location may vary by trim; verify visually before prying anything.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Apply the parking brake firmly and chock the wheels.
- Turn the ignition to the ON/ACC position if you have any battery power (this may allow the shift interlock to release).
- Press and hold the brake pedal if power is available.
- If the shifter will not release from Park, locate the shift lock override slot near the shifter base.
- The override access is typically a small rectangular cover or slot on the console surface near the shifter base, often on the right side or directly in front of the shifter.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool to press down into the override slot while simultaneously pressing the shifter button and moving the lever to Neutral.
- If successful, the vehicle can now be moved or towed in Neutral.
Shift-lock override location
Small rectangular access slot or cover on the console near the shifter base, typically on the right side or forward of the shifter mechanism
With zero electrical power
With completely dead battery, the shift lock override is mechanical and should still function. Insert tool into override slot, press down firmly, and shift to Neutral. The ignition does not need power for the mechanical override to work.